When someone uses their strength or influence to force you to do what they want, you may have been bullied.  This is a broad definition and there are sub forms of bullying that display the same characteristics but are specific in context ( e,g sexual harrassement)

I often encounter people who have been bullied and don’t recognize it as such.  (I was either in the audience or told the story afterward).  Most associate  bullying with youth.  It is defined as something that happens in high schools or perhaps universities.

Bullying behaviour is not restricted by age or location.

The Reality

Behaving like a bully is second nature to some.  It is in fact, very human.  Simply put, it is the practice of achieving your goals forcefully without regard to the damage you may do to others.

In fact, doing damage is often part of the technique.  Fortunately our Canadian society believes bullying to be an unacceptable behaviour, and actively discourages bullies.

Don’t Take It

Bullies typically threaten or leverage their authority but have little intention to follow through and normally will back down  when confronted.

Unfortunately many don’t take a stand, they accept the course of least resistance and the bullying rarely stops.  In organizations this largely takes a pyschological form and can be more harmful over time than the physical.

Often the frustration and anxiety the person being bullied feels continues to grow inside until like the volcano there is a sudden release and it’s usually not pretty.

Next time someone works to make you feel bad for their gain, don’t take it.  Speak-up, resist and don’t hesitate to seek help, believe me most don’t appreciate bullying behaviour and will support you.